DeSantis Recommends Danny Burgess to Head Veterans Affairs

Gov.-elect Ron DeSantis announced Saturday he will recommend state Rep. Danny Burgess, R-Zephyrhills to serve as the next executive director of Florida's Department of Veterans Affairs.

“Danny’s commitment to our nation and especially to Florida’s veteran community make him the perfect fit to lead the Department of Veterans Affairs," said DeSantis in a written statement. "His relentless advocacy for veterans in the Florida Legislature is proof of his commitment to the wellbeing of our veterans and addressing the important issues they face. I know he will work tirelessly to continue to improve our ability to serve Florida’s veterans and I look forward to discussing his exemplary record with members of the Cabinet when we convene."

Responded Burgess, “When Gov.-elect DeSantis first asked me to consider (this position), I viewed it as an extension of my duty to serve those who have served us. I want to thank my constituents and the community I have the honor to serve, for the faith and trust they have placed in me over the years and ask for their prayers and support as I work on behalf of our new governor to serve those who have given so much to our nation. I am grateful to the governor-elect for his confidence in me and I look forward to making great progress for our veterans."

Burgess is a captain and judge advocate in the United States Army Reserve. He was elected to represent eastern Pasco County in the Florida House of Representatives in 2014, and was subsequently re-elected in 2016 and 2018. Prior to joining the Florida House of Representatives, Burgess served on the Zephyrhills City Council and as Mayor of Zephyrhills. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of South Florida and his Juris Doctorate from the Barry University School of Law.

Comments

Ma'am, no one is questioning this very young man's abilities to be a fine young public servant and maybe one day with experience, a good representative. He is not, however, qualified to lead an agency of heroes and veterans. He just does not have that knowledge, nor experience. It is insulting to veterans and a disservice to this young man who just does not have the experience for this level of job. To make this unprecedented kind of appointment to this position is disrespectful to all who have served.

As a 100% DAV, what’s insulting and a disservice to me and others like me, are the ignorant opinions of people who fail to recognize this selectee’s decade plus significant public servant accomplishments while training and preparing to defend this nation, its constitution, principles & values when and where ever?! Remember, unlike you and I, he’s a success @ two competing professions, not just one?!